Schroder had long said he would vie for Gerlach’s seat if the four-term Congressman stepped aside in favor of a gubernatorial run, and after filing paperwork with the Federal Election Commission weeks ago, his announcement was mostly a formality. But as Democrats continue to coalesce around Doug Pike, the contours of the race are becoming increasingly clear.

“I have decided to enter this race to ensure that the values that built our country remain for our children, that we encourage the policies of entrepreneurism, limited government and to preserve the economic future of our nation,” Schroder said in a statement.